Western Coneflower

Rudbeckia occidentalis Western coneflower, is one of the most unusual wildflowers with impressively tall, upright stems that can reach up to five feet without flopping over. It’s a prized find along seeps and meadows for hikers and pollinators alike. In spring, the plant emerges with dense clumps of dark green leaves, setting the stage for its striking, cone-shaped buds to form. By summer, the plant explodes with dramatic, purplish-black cones, each packed with hundreds of teensy “disc florets”. The spent flower heads dry into spiky seed heads. If left in place, they will persist through the colder months, feeding songbirds and adding texture and visual interest to the garden. Plant type/canopy layer: deciduous, perennial, herbaceous plant Size at maturity: 36-60” tall; 24-36” wide Light requirements: full sun, part sun/part shade Moisture requirements: moist to wet soil Bloom time: June-September Growth rate/ease: medium growth rate, moderately difficult to grow Wil